It is expected that the 8th Pay Commission will decide on the salary structure for central government employees based on the fitment factor. Additionally, a decision regarding the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) for central government employees is also likely.
8th Pay Commission: While central government employees are eagerly awaiting the Dearness Allowance (DA) for the period from July to December, their anticipation for the recommendations of the 8th Pay Commission is even greater. The central government announced the formation of the 8th Pay Commission back in January, but neither the composition of the committee nor any notification regarding its implementation has been issued so far. This uncertainty surrounding the 8th Pay Commission is increasing the anxiety among central government employees.
Various media outlets are speculating about this new pay commission. It is anticipated that the new pay commission will determine the salary structure for central government employees based on a “fitment factor.” There is also speculation regarding the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), which is considered the backbone of healthcare services for central government employees.
What changes could be made?
There is considerable discussion about replacing the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) with a new insurance-based scheme. According to media reports, the central government may discontinue the CGHS and launch a new health program based on the recommendations of the 8th Pay Commission. This is not the first time that the CGHS has been under consideration for replacement. The previous three pay commissions—the 5th, 6th, and 7th—had also recommended replacing the CGHS with another scheme. This time, the change is expected to modernize healthcare services. However, the government has not yet made any official announcement.
Several changes have been made to the CGHS
During the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission, several major changes were made to the CGHS. For example, efforts have been initiated to link the CGHS card with the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA). Employees whose salaries have CGHS contributions deducted are now eligible for automatic card issuance.
Similarly, other changes include the facility to access treatment in government hospitals without a referral, the ability to consult three specialist doctors in private hospitals with a single referral, and reducing the age limit to 70 years. These reforms have made access to healthcare services much easier for employees and pensioners.
